Get Your Switzerland Dual Citizenship – Learn How to Apply
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Eligibility Overview
- By Birth: Children born in Switzerland to at least one Swiss citizen automatically acquire citizenship.
- By Descent : Children born abroad to a Swiss parent may acquire citizenship if registered before age 22.
- By Marriage : Spouses of Swiss citizens may apply for facilitated naturalization after 3–5 years of marriage and residence in Switzerland.
- By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply after 10 years of residence, including 3 of the last 5 years before applying, with language and integration requirements.
- Special Exception – Dual Citizenship Allowed: Switzerland allows dual and even multiple citizenships. Applicants are not required to give up their original nationality.
- Note: Swiss naturalization decisions involve the federal government, the canton, and the local commune. Requirements may vary by location.
Step-by-Step Process
- Confirm eligibility based on descent, marriage, or length of residence.
- Submit application at the federal, cantonal, and communal levels (through SEM or your canton).
- Provide documents, attend interviews, and pass language/integration assessments.
- Receive approval and take the citizenship oath at the local level.
Benefits of Swiss Citizenship
- Live and work anywhere in Switzerland and the EU (with bilateral agreements)
- High standard of living, world-class infrastructure and healthcare
- Access to Swiss social benefits, voting rights, and public education
- Hold multiple citizenships and a respected Swiss passport
Frequently asked questions.
Does Switzerland allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Switzerland has allowed dual and multiple citizenships since 1992. You are not required to renounce any other citizenships when naturalizing.
Can I get Swiss citizenship through my parent?
Yes. If at least one of your parents was Swiss at the time of your birth, you may qualify for citizenship by descent. If born abroad, you must register before age 22.
Can I apply through marriage?
Yes. Spouses of Swiss citizens may apply for facilitated naturalization after 3 years of marriage if living in Switzerland (or 5 years if living abroad).
How long do I have to live in Switzerland to naturalize?
You must have 10 years of residence, including 3 of the last 5 years continuously, and meet language and civic integration requirements.
Do I have to pay taxes in Switzerland as a citizen?
Taxation in Switzerland is based on residence, not citizenship. You’re only taxed if you live in Switzerland or earn income from Swiss sources.
Does Switzerland recognize same-sex marriage for citizenship?
Yes. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2022. Same-sex spouses have equal rights in the naturalization process.